PhD Studentship: Exploring a One Welfare Approach to Human-animal-computer Interaction in Digital Dairy Technologies

University of Nottingham - Veterinary Medicine & Science

Location: Sutton Bonington

Principal supervisor: Charlotte Doidge

Other supervisors: Jasmeet Kaler, Jorge Vazquez Diosdado, Alexandra Lang

Background

Research at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science includes established world class research groups. 85% of our research is classed as "world-leading" (4*) or "internationally excellent" (3*) and our research collaborations and networks extend nationally and internationally. Research undertaken at the School is relevant to both Veterinary Medicine and Science, One Health, and Comparative and Human Medicine.

Project description

Digital technologies are increasingly used to support animal health and welfare, yet their success depends on how farmers, animals, and systems interact. This PhD will explore the use of the Epiherd digital platform through a One Welfare and human-animal-computer interaction lens, examining how digital tools shape farmer-cow relationships, perceptions of care, and welfare‑related decisions.

The project will investigate how farmers engage with technology in real‑world settings, how digital insights influence decision‑making, and how the technology affects human and animal experiences on dairy farms. It will also explore associations between technology use and herd‑level outcomes such as health, welfare, and responsible medicine use.

The student will use a mixed‑methods approach, combining qualitative interviews, behavioural and social science perspectives, user‑centred or participatory design methods, and quantitative analysis of farm data. The goal is to understand how digital dairy technologies can be designed and implemented to support mutual wellbeing across the human-animal-technology system.

The PhD is based within the Ruminant Population Health group at the University of Nottingham’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, with access to the Centre for Dairy Science Innovation (CDSI), strong industry links, and training in welfare science, digital innovation, and mixed‑methods research.

This project is ideal for candidates interested in animal welfare, human-animal interaction, digital technologies, and interdisciplinary approaches to livestock care.

Further information and Application

Applicants should have a minimum of a 2.1 undergraduate degree or a minimum of a 2.2 degree and a Master’s degree in Agriculture, Animal Science, Veterinary Science, Psychology, User Experience, Social science or similar subjects.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to the principal supervisor: Charlotte Doidge <charlotte.doidge@nottingham.ac.uk>

Candidates should apply online and include a CV. When completing the online application form, please select the School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, then PhD Veterinary Medicine and Science (36m) and, once submitted, send your student ID number to SV-PG-VET@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk.

Any queries regarding the application process should be addressed to SV-PG-VET@exmail.nottingham.ac.uk.

Start date: 1st July 2026

Eligibility for Funding

This is a fully funded studentship open to UK nationals. Fee status will be assessed upon application.